Senior Architect - Urban Planning and Civic Design

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Professional growth opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton is seeking a Senior Architect with expertise in urban planning and civic design to lead public realm projects and master plans. You will shape urban environments that foster livability, sustainability, and community engagement, working with government bodies, developers, and stakeholders.

The role requires a proven track record in complex urban design, strong communication skills, and the ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams through design development and approvals

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or Urban Design.
• 9+ years of professional experience in urban planning and civic design.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex urban design projects and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong knowledge of zoning regulations and development processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural and urban design of civic projects and master planning.
• Develop design strategies for public spaces and cultural facilities.
• Create master plans and urban design frameworks promoting social equity and resilience.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders, and community representatives to build consensus.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams (urban planners, landscape architects, engineers, policy advisors).
• Prepare design documentation, presentations, and reports for approvals and public engagement.
• Oversee implementation of urban design guidelines and standards.
• Conduct research on urban trends and policy implications.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to the firm's expertise.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Critical thinking

Presentation skills

Project management

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Architecture/Urban Planning/Urban Design

Tools

GIS

Architectural visualization tools

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client, a leading consultancy focused on shaping sustainable urban futures, is seeking a distinguished Senior Architect with expertise in urban planning and civic design to join their esteemed practice in Sandton, Gauteng . This role is for a visionary professional who can lead the design and development of public spaces, civic buildings, and integrated urban environments. You will be instrumental in developing master plans, urban strategies, and architectural concepts that foster community engagement, enhance livability, and promote environmental sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical, conceptual, and communication skills, with a proven ability to manage complex urban projects and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, community groups, and private developers. Our client is dedicated to creating positive urban transformations through thoughtful design.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural and urban design aspects of civic projects, public realm improvements, and master planning initiatives.
• Develop innovative design strategies for public spaces, cultural facilities, and community infrastructure in Sandton .
• Create comprehensive master plans and urban design frameworks that promote social equity, economic vitality, and environmental resilience.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders, and community representatives to understand needs and build consensus on design proposals.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including urban planners, landscape architects, engineers, and policy advisors.
• Prepare high-quality design documentation, presentations, and reports for project approvals and public engagement.
• Oversee the implementation of urban design guidelines and architectural standards for projects.
• Conduct research and analysis on urban trends, best practices, and policy implications related to civic development.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to the firm's expertise in urban and civic design.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or Urban Design.
• A minimum of 9 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong focus on urban planning, public realm design, and civic architecture.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex urban design projects and managing stakeholder engagement processes.
• Excellent understanding of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and development processes.
• Proficiency in urban design software, GIS, and architectural visualization tools.
• Exceptional design thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• A portfolio showcasing impactful urban design and civic architecture projects.
• Ability to contribute to the strategic direction of the firm's urban design practice.

Benefits

• Lead significant urban development and civic projects impacting communities in Sandton and beyond.
• Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a respected firm at the forefront of urban design innovation.
• Professional growth and leadership development opportunities.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Contribute to creating more livable, sustainable, and vibrant urban environments.